THE family of missing Workington man Nicholas Degraff have thanked the community for their 'overwhelming' support as the search continues over ten days on from when he was last seen.

The 23 year old was reported missing just after dinnertime last Sunday, December 12 with volunteers turning out every day since then in a bid to find him.

Specialist teams and police continue to search along the River Derwent and in the surrounding locations alongside members of the public.

The community has supported police in the search for over a week, with people searching areas along the west coast.

Nicholas' cousin Louise Waite has expressed her and her families gratitude for the support the community has shown them at this time.

She said: "Thank you so much for your help looking for our Nic we have been overwhelmed by the support our family have received and the amount of people that have made the time everyday (to help with the search) has been incredible.

"Thank you everyone we really appreciate everything you have done and are still doing.

"If you don't know me I am Nick's cousin...please if you know anything let us know."

Mr Degraff left an address in Great Clifton at about 4.30am on Sunday, intending to walk home to Workington, but he did not arrive.

He was last seen on Rosemary Gardens, Great Clifton at about 5am heading westwards towards Workington.

Police are continuing to search the river and surrounding area's, with underwater searches continuing throughout the day yesterday.

Anyone with any information on the 23 year olds disappearance is being urged to come forward.

A Cumbria police spokesman said:“We are continuing to appeal for anyone with information or any potential sightings to please get in touch.”

“He has tattoos on his face and neck, with spacer ear piercings.

Nick was last seen wearing a black jacket, black jogging bottoms, work boots and carrying a grey-coloured drawstring shoulder bag.

He is described as ‘5ft 10in tall, of slim build and with short, brown hair’.

A police spokesman said: “He has tattoos on his face and neck, with spacer ear piercings.

“He had an Alsatian dog with him.

“Nicholas also had in his possession a ‘3M SPEED GLAS’ black welding mask – likely carried in a bag – which would be quite distinctive if found.”

Anyone who has knowledge of his whereabouts is urged to call 999.